Thursday, March 30, 2006

Welcome Taylor Jane Howell !!!
















I thought you all would like to meet our newest granddaughter, Taylor Jane Howell!! Born 3-30-06 3:20 am 7 lbs 8 ozs Absolutely beautiful and perfect!! We are so grateful for her safe arrival. Garrett and Jane are blessed with a gorgeous little girl.

Love you all, hope to see you soon,
Proud grandma, Janet

Wednesday, March 29, 2006

Happy Birthday times TWO.

Somebody else is having a birthday today. This person has long black hair. Tons of energy. And always has a big, big smile on his or her face. As for this person's name, let me just say it doesn't sound like it's spelled. And this person writes great letters. Happy birthday _ _ _ _ _ _! We love you. Any guesses?

It's time for one of my favorite songs:

Jake, Jake for goodness sake. Why in the world would you eat that snake? Some of you don't know that song, but no doubt Jacob knows it. I used to sing it to him when he was a little boy and boy did it make him laugh. We'll be singing that song all day. Happy Birthday Jake. We love you.

Monday, March 27, 2006

Graham Crackers


Just thought I'd share a cute picture of Camrie and Jaxon. Enjoy.

What a nice day to have a birthday.

We're soooo lucky to have this person in our family. She's kind. She's loving. She's smart. She's darling. She's giving. She's patient. She's a hard worker. She's funny. And she's a year older today. Happy Birthday Lisa. We love you.

Friday, March 24, 2006

Happeeee.

If a person leaves a hospital carrying an 8 lbs 2 oz bundle that's wrapped in a 6 oz baby blanket and also carrying a diaper bag that weighs 4 lbs, and then travels 4 miles at 35 mph both ways to and from the hospital without hitting a single red light, then how many Denny's would there be to wish this person a Happy Birthday? And who is this person? (I'm sure this person is smart enough to figure this out.) We love you.

Thursday, March 23, 2006

Val's Meme

What is one thing you doubt most of us don't know about you?
I love to play raquetball.
If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
(Almost) Any meat between two pieces of whole grain bread with lettuce and onions.
What movie could you watch over and over again?
The Sound of Music or the origional Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.
If you had to live outside the U.S., where would you live and why?
I would live anywhere outside the US for the adventure of it, but somewhere warm would be preferable!
What was your least favorite or most favorite subject in school?
I loved speech and drama or any class that had a coach for the teacher!
What is something that makes you smile from ear to ear?
Home videos
What's a TV show you hate to admit you like?
American Idol
Who are your favorite bands or music?
Shania Twain, Anne Murray, The Beatles, Voicemale, Country, Showtunes
What's your favorite fruit or vegetable?
I am crazy about warm watermelon and garden cukes
What age do you think is the ideal age?
Life begins at 40...Bring it on!
If you could vacation anywhere, where would it be?
I would love to go back to Guam (with Jon) or anywhere with him!
If you weren't doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing?
I would be singing and traveling with the Tabernacle Choir (if only I had the voice).
What's one part of your daily routine you don't like?
Getting ready for the day. Showers, hair, makeup, clothes etc. It is so time consuming.
If you were an animal what would you be, and why?
I am an animal
What is your favorite type of Candy (Bar)?
Take 5. Just the right amount of salty sweet!
I want to tag ...Vida. Have Fun.

missionary news

Dear Family,Wow, I can't believe it is already Thursday again! Time really does fly, Idon't know where the weeks go!Our weather is the same way...this Monday it was warm and muggy and the last fewdays it has been snowy and very windy. Lucky for us though, today is nice and sunny, with very little strong wind so far. We have been walking for the last two days straight! Since we had to go to Erie, PA for emissions and inspection,we have been over par in miles. Also, because we know that Elder Skifton isgetting transferred on the 28th of March, we are going to have to drive to Erie again this month for transfers, which is another 200 miles that we need to plan for. We are going to have to walk for the next few days to save miles. It's actually better to walk, because then we see a lot more people on our way to places. The only thing bad about it is my companion's tracting shoes are wornout, and so he has to wear his meeting shoes, which are very tight, and hurt his feet. I think that a member and the members' sister, who is investigating the church, are going to buy him a new pair of shoes before he leaves, so he'll befine. I love to see the stories and characters come to life in the scriptures, and Laman and Lemuel are characters that are very puzzling to me. They saw angels,were shocked by the power of God, and heard a voice of thunder rebuke them, yet they still rebelled against God. I think that is why faith is so important. They lacked faith in God, although they saw the power of God. Faith is not something that we get from being shocked or seeing angels. Faith is gained through reading the scriptures, applying them to our lives, and praying about them. I think that Laman and Lemuel were too stubborn to actually live the gospel, to try the experiment with the seed that Alma talked about. They onlyl lived it for a short season when they were compelled to live it. They did not take the necessary steps to gain the faith needed to follow God throughout their lives. The scripture that comes to mind is 1 Nephi 17:45. It describes Lamanand Lemuel's state. They were too hard-hearted to change their lives in accordance with the gospel.  Everyone can benefit from learning about and living the gospel, but the problem is that some people don't even want to hear the message. They are so hard-hearted, and some are even "past feeling" as Laman and Lemuel were. I love the people here, and I hope that we are able to share this gospel with as many as we can. We continue to try every day to share this gospel, and it is a joy to do so.A few days ago, we were following up on a media referral that we delivered. In Cuba, NY, Dale Cross ordered a Finding Faith in Christ DVD from the church. He said that they had watched it and loved it, but that he was busy with a lot of different work, so we should try back. Just then, someone runs down the stairs to the door and tells us to come inside. He had just finished recording a rapsong about Jesus. We were both laughing at the strangeness of it, and then he asked us how we differ from other churches. We spent the next 25 or 30 minutes going back and forth telling him about the restoration. He was very excited,and loved all of it. Right before Elder Skifton gave the First vision in Joseph Smith's own words, the Holy Ghost burned so powerfully within my heart to confirm the truth of that account. That happens every time I hear or give the account of the First vision. After that point in the lesson, the Spirit always rests with us very powerfully. We asked the man how he could find out if theBook of Mormon was true, and he immediately said "Of course I have to pray about it". Dale then said "It brought them all the way over here, so they must know it is true already" (that is a horrible paraphrase). Anyway, we had a very good experience that night. After that, we visited the Skowron's, our investigator family, inbetween Cuba and Hinsdale, NY, and we found out that they are moving to Alamosa, Colorado. We thought they would probably be in a small branch again, so it would be rough getting them to church. At their house we went to mormon.org and looked up Alamosa and their are four wards! We are so excited for them, and their continued progression in the gospel. I invited them to church this week powerfully, and they are going to be able to make it to Sacrament meeting. This is their second time coming. The first time they went to church, it was Fast and Testimony meeting, and they were very confused about the vocabulary people were using. We hope this time Sacrament meeting will be a little easier for them to understand. I love it here, and love all of the people that I have met and continue to meet every day. Thank you so much for the St. Patricks day package!(especially thefood!) The funny thing about it is that my companion also got a package from his family on the same day that I got your package. I hope you all have a great St. Patricks Day tomorrow. Don't worry, I'll make sure I find something green to wear. I think I have some green socks, so those will work. I hope you have a great week! Love,Elder Andrew J Ostler

Our Newest Edition




Berkley is the newest edition to the Bibler home. Her and Bentley(the big black dog) are having fun playing together. I miss everyone and hopefully I will get a chance to see some of you soon.

Monday, March 20, 2006

I'm a Professional Blogger

I'm quite excited to announce that I have now made over $200 from ads on my blog.

It took me 10 months to make the first $100, and less than one month to make the second $100.

I'm quite psyched.

Retirement, here I come. (Ok, maybe 5 more years, but I am counting down.)

Friday, March 17, 2006

where's stu??

sorry everyone, but elder stuart denny hasn't fallen off the face of the planet. about 1 1/2 months ago his mission president changes the rules in his mission and they can no longer e-mail. ( I'm guessing someone was abusing the privelage) anyway, since then he's been writting old fashioned letters and I'm either too busy or lazy to re-type them onto the blog. maybe nate could start doing that. ( at least he can type with all his fingers )
To give you an update, he's been transferred to Bangor Maine. his new address is: Elder Denny
93 4th street, Bangor Maine 04401
he really seems to be growing up over the last month and has re-committed himself to being obedient and working harder than ever. (sounds like me as I usually try to justify my sinful behavior rather than humble myself to repent.) he's now a senior companion and has decided that leadership is not all it's cracked up to be. it was easier to be the jr. companion and have someone else in charge. he's still finding quite a lot of success and he says the people of Maine are more receptive than the people of Vermont.
Stu recently let us know that his mission president has given permission for Brayden to go out the last week of Stu's mission and work with him for a week before we travel out to pick him up. we're excited for that opportunity and to travel to that part of the country and see the church sites. I'm especially excited to see the sight of the first vision where the Savior of the world actually visited. Thanks for all the support everyone has extended to stuart and the rest of my family. we're real blessed to be part of such a great family and love you all.
Dave

Police Academy Graduation!




I just wanted to let you all know that Josh has completed the Police Academy!!! We are very proud of him and are excited to see what's next for him in this field! Here are a couple pictures of his graduation date that I thought you might enjoy! He is now Officer Draper!!

Kelcie.

See Kelcie. See Kelcie turn one. What fun. See Kelcie. See Kelcie eat cake. Her mom didn't bake. Yet. What a mess. I would guess. See Kelcie. See Kelcie play with a balloon. All afternoon. Until it got popped. And the fun quickly stopped. See Kelcie. See Kelcie open a gift. Watch her smile lift. She loves that gift. See Kelcie. See Kelcie turn one. We love you Kelcie. Hugs and kisses. What fun.

Wednesday, March 15, 2006

Amy Denny Meme

What is one thing you doubt most of us don't know about you? Fall is my favoirte season because of the beautiful colors.

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? I think I agree with Aly, cheesecake all the way.

What movie could you watch over and over again? City of Angels

If you had to live outside the U.S., where would you live and why? Probably No Where I wanna stay in the U.S.

What was your least favorite or most favorite subject in school? Math

What is something that makes you smile from ear to ear? Sunsets

What's a TV show you hate to admit you like? I don’t watch to much t.v. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is about it.

Who are your favorite bands? Does Michael McClean count?

What's your favorite ice cream flavor? Anything with Peanut Butter, Chocolate, and Nuts!!

What age do you think is the ideal age? Probably close to Grandpa’s age because then your so wise.

If you could vacation anywhere, where would it be? Hawaii, I had the time of my life last year.

If you weren't doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing? I’d be a clown in a circus. (basically I live in one now with my 5 boys)

What's one part of your daily routine you don't like? Making Dinner cause no one is ever home to eat it anymore.

If you were an animal what would you be, and why? A cat because I could come and go as I wanted and sleep all day in the sunshine.

What is your favorite type of M & M's? It’s a toss-up between peanut and peanut butter…probably peanut.

I want to tag Val next...good luck.

Tuesday, March 14, 2006

Indian Creek Campground

Here's a map (click to enlarge) detailing the location of the Indian Creek Campground.


See you around.

Monday, March 13, 2006

DENNY FAMILY CAMPOUT!!

July 13-16
Indian Creek Campground
In the Manti LaSalle Mountains, near Joe's Valley Reservoir
More information later...

Sunday, March 12, 2006

It's a birthday kind of day.


Today is Norma's birthday. I think she's 68. Or it might be 67, I'm not sure. But if you ask me, she doesn't look a day over 60. We hope your day is full of hugs and kitty rubs. We love you Norma.

Thursday, March 09, 2006

Where is Amy Denny?

Amy...You got tagged back on February 23rd. We'd love to hear from you!!! (I'm reposting Aly's below.)


What is one thing you doubt most of us don't know about you?
I practice my dance moves in front of the mirror.

If you could only eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? Cheesecake, it is pure heaven!!!

What movie could you watch over and over again? Empire Records

If you had to live outside the U.S., where would you live and why? Either Ireland (pictures of Ireland are beautiful) or Australia (You are surrounded by ocean and beach)

What was your least favorite or most favorite subject in school? I absolutely loved math. I know, I'm a nerd!!!

What is something that makes you smile from ear to ear? The beach (and of course my nieces and nephew)

What's a TV show you hate to admit you like? Laguna Beach: The Real OC

Who are your favorite bands? Tori Amos, Jack Johnson, and Notorious BIG

What's your favorite ice cream flavor? Tin Roof Sundae

What age do you think is the ideal age? Which ever age you have finally figured out what you want in life and who you are as a person.

If you could vacation anywhere, where would it be? Maine

If you weren't doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing? I would be a police detective or a criminal investigator of some type.

What's one part of your daily routine you don't like? Waking up early

If you were an animal what would you be, and why? A Siberian Tiger, they are beautiful animals and to me they represent strength and courage.

What is your favorite type of M & M's? You can never go wrong with peanut, unless you're allergic of course.

Tag your it, Amy Denny (Aunt Amy)!!!

Is that a smile?

Wednesday, March 08, 2006

More memories.




We love you Mother.
(and you too Dad.)

Wonderful Mother

MEMORIES!!



I have been thinking of Mother today---the 8th anniversary of her passing---and oh how I miss her so much.
She was truly an example of all that is good. I have always wished I could grow up just like her. I have fallen short, but I'm still trying to get better. I love you, Mother.
Pam

Tuesday, March 07, 2006

Family Campout???

I was just wondering if I missed any info about a family campout this summer? Isn't this the "on" year? Who is planning this year? I was just trying to plan our time and would love any info anyone may have.

Sunday, March 05, 2006


Here is what the article in Woman's World said about me. Thanks so much to Rand for scanning it for me and spiffing it up a little for me to put it on my blog. I'll still send the magazine for anyone who wants to see the "real thing".

I also have another bit of news that some of you may be interested in. For those who remember Frank, he is back in my life again, and we are making some plans to spend time together and do some serious traveling. I really care about him, and he seems to feel the same way, so it is really great so far. (It feels a bit weird to write this on the blog, but it's the easiest way to tell everyone without spending hours on the phone. If you want more details you'll have to call me.)

Happy Birthday Elder Denny

Tract. Eat cake. Polish your shoes. Eat more cake. Study. Eat the last piece of cake. And have a wonderful birthday. We love you Stuart.

Saturday, March 04, 2006

Aunt Rosie and the Grose Wedding

Hi everyone,
I just wanted to report for the wedding of Wes Grose' son, Tyler. Several of you went in on it, so I was able to go to B, B, and B and buy a really nice (huge) wicker basket set with several pieces. I also got some candles. I know not many of you got an invitation, but thanks for sharing anyway.
Pam and Kelly were also there with the girls. All that side said to say hello to everyone, so I'm passing it on. Bob and Carol were there from Alaska, and they are dying to have the men (and gals too) go up for some good fishing. They have a huge home with lots of room for everyone, so they would love all to come. It was nice visiting with them. They had flown in to Phoenix and then driven up. I guess Ron lives in Phoenix and his life is a mess and nobody much visits him, so Bob likes to make sure he sees him every so often.
I also had a nice visit with Aunt Rosie. She looks good; I just always forget how tiny she is. She says all she's done since they've been home from their mission in mid-Jan is go from doctor to doctor. She knows everything she doesn't have, but no answers on what is going on. I didn't ask for more details, but I thought she looked pretty good.
Another one of Wes's son is getting married in September, so I'll probably do this gift thing again then. Adios.

Thursday, March 02, 2006

A Newsy Letter From Andrew

Dear Family,It is definitely not showing any signs of spring right now in Olean. We havehad snow and more snow. Just when you think it will stop and when it melts awayit comes right back.I will send more photos, but I have to get in the habit of taking picturesfirst! I am going to take some of the apartment and maybe some with members andinvestigators as well...(maybe even a few with Elder Skifton in them).I will definitely enjoy the time that I have left with Elder Skifton. He is awonderful companion, and as I have got to know him, he is a wonderful person. He is going through the transition from being a kid to becoming an adult, and ithas been very stressed at times, but he never complains or puts on a long facefor anyone to see, and stands out as a good example, sharing the gospel withthose he can.Time has been going fast, and every P-Day I marvel at how a whole week haspassed. It doesn't seem like that much time has gone by since I started, but ithas been over three months!We have been visiting a lot of members, recent converts and less-actives, and Ilove it! We do need to work on getting more referrals, but I am getting to knowa lot of wonderful people in the Olean/Cuba/Portville/Coudersport/PortAllegany/Hinsdale and Wherever Else area!
We had a Zone Conference on Monday in Franklin, PA, and luckily for us and ourmileage, Sister Habovstack gave us a ride (it's 2 hours away!) I love ZoneConferences because I always get such a spiritual boost from them. I know thatPresident Francis is an inspired leader, called over this mission, and I knowthat he does receive revelation for us.
I'm sorry, but I didn't get your e-mail until today...I was beginning to wonderif you forgot my e-mail, or if myldsmail was messed up. Don't feel bad though,because I did get e-mail from other people, and I did get to read yours, it wasjust a little delayed.This week I have some letters written that I am going to send out, which shouldcome next week, so I hope they arrive safely.Anyway, we are visiting a less-active member named Norman Stanton a few times aweek, and he loves the Book of Mormon! Since we have given him it a few monthsago, he is on his third time reading it! He knows all of the stories very welland definitely comprehends what he reads. He is a really wonderful person andhas had a lot of neat spiritual experiences. The sad part is that he lives inapartments where everyone hates us and the church, and he is being persecutedfor his beliefs. The good news is that he has a strong testimony, and the evenbetter news is that a member of the church just moved in the room across thehall from him, so he now has some more support.
I hope you are all doing well over in your little corner of the USA, I amdoing well in my corner! I am writing this letter from Erie, PA in the PublicLibrary. We are in Erie this P-Day because we have to get an emissions check inPA. The car is registered in Pittsburgh, and the closest dealership to Oleanthat can do the check is in Erie, so here we are. Not my idea of how to use aP-Day, but it is cool to see the city of Erie.My companion got his toe cut off...JUST KIDDING! He had an ingrown toenail andhad it removed yesterday at the local podiatrist, Richard L. Scott. Interestingly familiar name, huh? Too bad it is one letter off. Talk about anice way to approach someone about the gospel!I hope you and Mitch both get better soon, (unless you are both already better)and I hope no one else gets it from you (not likely). I hope you had a goodMardi Gras(on the 28th of Feb). I don't know what else to write, and I'vealready talked your ear off, so I guess I will wrap it up.I hope you all have a merry March!
Love,Elder Andrew J Ostler

Brotherly Love


Austin loves having a new brother (most of the time) and is always giving kisses whether Brayden really wants them or not.